Monday, January 9, 2017

Happy 2017!

We’re 2 weeks into a brand new year already. It's time to implement those changes. So, what are your plans for 2017? I’ll tell you what mine are.
Those who know me know that I LOVE TO CREATE! But, am I making enough time for it? Probably not. Living a handmade life and running your own handmade jewelry business isn't all about making. There's lots of other stuff that takes over your time.
My plan is to set aside blocks of studio time. If necessary, I’ll even drop everything when an idea comes about (I should, right???). Now I’m not normally one to waste time, however, it does happen. So, I plan on working more efficiently and being more aware of time flying out the window.
I will also continue to implement sustainable practices into my contemporary jewelry.
There will also be education for me in 2017. I will be attending Arrowmont school of arts and crafts in Gatlinburg for the first time this summer. I’m so excited about this! Lot's of friends have gone or taught, so I've heard so much about it. Can't wait for that playtime.
I hope you've reflected on 2016 and are looking forward to your fresh new start. Who knows what else the year will bring, but make it count…
Peace, Jo




Thursday, March 17, 2016

The struggle of the juggle

This year was going to be my year for marketing my work. When January came around I was raring to go! So I signed up for not one, but two online course. At the same time. What??? This is my question to myself right now. But I'm pushing through. I've quickly realized the struggle of the juggle between, making, marketing, photographing, Tweeting, doing shows, visiting galleries, etc...

 So I breathe deep and tell myself that it's worth it. I love what I do. Without exposure, I don't sell. And if I don't sell, I can't make more. Now that would be a drag because you all know how much I love to make things!

  So without further ado, here's a look at some of my latest efforts from my JOSEPHINE art line.    
I hope you like it!
Peace, Jo

www.shopjomama.com





Thursday, January 7, 2016

New year, new you?

I don’t know about you, but I always look forward to the new year. It’s a fresh start and a chance to get back on track. When I was younger it was more about things I wanted to change about myself. That’s one good thing about getting older, you learn to like who you are. Now I think of it with regard of things I want to accomplish. Why change, I like who I am. I’m already planning my next move and choosing classes that appeal to me. I can’t believe how much I have to do… Wishing you a productive year. Full speed ahead! Peace, Jo Follow my creative progress at www.shopjomama.com

Monday, September 14, 2015

The theme was carnival of mirrors. The energy was high. I must have biked a few hundred miles in the 12 days I was there. I'm talking about this year's Burning man. It was my first time attending this magical gathering. It's really way beyond words trying to explain it to people. Not only did I go, but I participated in an interactive art installation too. The creativity was endless and the people were energized. I covered a lot of territory on my bike trying to take it all in. And I continually craved more. Where do I begin? The art was incredible! The endless art and theme camps included a symphony, a rock opera, recycled aluminum jewelry workshop, dance parties on art cars, poetry reading, folk singers, human carcass wash, burning temples, naked bicyclists, dust storms, trebuchet flaming piano, shooting stars, gifting, hugs, advice, counseling… By day it was this open platform on the desert with art spread out across its floor. But at night when the city's skyline was lit everything changed. It was charged with energy. I had always heard about Black Rock City but hadn't thought much about it until recent years as friends where migrating out there. It truly is a city. Of 70,000 people. And it only exhibits a little more than a week every year. On Saturday night the Man burned. As an environmentalist, I have mixed emotions about these things. But I have to say, it was powerful. The Mayan Warrior art car was parked behind us, tribal drums beating in anticipation. I stood there in his same position, feet apart, hands pointing down towards the ground. Breathing. As he burned I felt my feet ground to the earth like I had never felt before. I was with my tribe and felt wonderfully at peace. Next burn up was the totem of confession burn. It was a beautiful brothel looking Gothic church that appeared to be made of cardboard. It housed Timothy Leary's ashes brought there by Susan Sarandon. As it burned the fire danced. It kicked off small, but tall funnel clouds of dust. I'm not just talking one, there were several. As the fire died down, two funnels jumped out. They danced and twirled, then became one and lifted up into the sky. What a sendoff for Mr Leary! In the "default world" as they call it, people are guarded (including myself) and everything is take take. It was refreshing to see all of the giving, openness and random hugs from strangers. I wish this would manifest in the real world. Despite the ridiculous amount of dust storms, cracking skin, constant dust boogers, lack of showering and gross port a johns, it was one of the best experiences of my life. I’m not surprised. What an amazing community of motivated creative people. I made some beautiful new friends and I'm thankful for the encounter and wonderful memories that I will always carry. Good bye Black Rock City. I think I'll be back. Peace, Jo
All the way from South Florida!
Elaine atop the trailer
The Love Tester going up
The Love Tester is up!
Magnificent Mazu temple built by friend, Josh Boyer
Totem of Confessions housed Timothy Leary's ashes
My husband squishing the Man =]
Breathe: one of my favorites
Mayan warrior art car
Teeter totter fun with Misselaineous
Don't forget to LIVE!
My beautiful bike got me places
Space age dance party
The Man 2015
Sacred Temple of Promise
With my new friend Ashley
Reflecting, I am at peace.

Friday, January 16, 2015

New Year newsletter from Jomama

We're only a few weeks into the new year and I'm already off and running! Now I'm not one to make resolutions, but I do find lately that I've been setting more goals. The difference being goals are something I actually want to achieve as opposed to things I think need changing. Last year ended on a good note after getting my work into two art galleries. I feel that with some hard work anything is possible. I've already been hitting the studio hard this year producing new work, which I hope will reach even more galleries this year. If you believe in something, go for it! Hope 2015 is being kind to you so far. Thank you for your support. You can view more of my work @www.shopjomama.com Peace, Jo

Monday, October 13, 2014

I can make that

I’ve heard it before. You’ve said it before. Even I’ve said if before. “I can make that”. So you go home, you gather supplies, thoughts, time. You jump in. Working feverishly, you paint, form, mold, move, cut, file, manipulate. Why doesn’t it look like the one I saw? It can be insulting to say this out loud. Truth is, you can’t “make that”. It was in fact the artist’s vision that you were drawn to; their style. It was their use of color, texture, juxtaposition or the materials. However it did inspire you, it got you motivated. In the end, that’s a win win. Keep on creating, it will become your own! Peace, Jomama

Friday, July 4, 2014

On the 4th of July, you can't help but feel pride in America and things made here. Personally, I think it's extremely important for the future of our country. As I work and search for new materials, I always keep this in mind. How rewarding to know you're part of the solution to our struggling economy. Since I don't leave the country often, the found objects I work with are definitely made in the USA! The concrete I use and the handspun yarn I buy on Etsy are also made in the USA. Even ICE Resin is American made =) It's really pretty easy. Sure you might pay a little more, but as an American, isn't it worth it? I think so. Have a safe and happy 4th of July! Peace Jomama www.shopjomama.com